As previously reported, Final Fantasy XI takes place in the world of Vana Dir, where once again the evil spirits are on the rise, after being thought defeated. Five different races co-exist in this world of the crystals: Hume, Tarutaru, Elvaan, Mithra and Galka.

The first class, Hume, is actually your standard human character; well-balanced and capable of learning many different kinds of skills.

The Tarutaru, smaller creatures with big ears, rely on their magic spells and inhabit the Federation of Windurst.

The Galka, on the other hand, are broad-shouldered and tall. They live in the Bastok Republic, which is well known for its industry.

The Elvaan, residing in the San D'oria Kindgom, share the same abilities as their elvish cousins in Lord of the Rings. Brave warriors, tall and strong, they are very proud of themselves and their achievements.

Also an elvish race, the Mithra inhabit a small corner of the Federation of Windurst. Being opposed to any kind of technological progress, they live close to nature and rely on their physical abilites. Outside their home lands you will never see the rare male Mithra, since only females travel.

Four regions also have been introduced so far; the Republic of Bastok, the Federation of Windurst, Kingdom of San D'oria, Ronafaure Forest, Gustaberg and Sarutabaruta. Bastok is the nation of the Humes and has become the center of research and technology. The republic's capital was built around a mine, where a special metal called Mithril can be found.

Consisting of many Tarutaru tribes the Federation of Windurst is the center of magical power in Vana Dir. The Kingdom of San D'oria is inhabited by the Elvaan tribes. While at the moment alliances between the different groups are stable, they can break down again very quickly and send San D'oria into turmoil again. One important alliance, between royal and monk knights, is securing order in the capital. Close to the kingdom, the traveller will run into the mysterious and beautiful Ronfaure Forest.

Surrounding the Bastok Republic is an unfertile place called Gustaberg. If it weren't for the minerals that can be found in its northern caves, nobody would ever come here voluntarily.

Last but not least, the wide plains of Sarutabaruta boast unique fauna and flora. Located to the north of the Windurst Federation, various monsters of different size and unique plants can be found here.